Ruby Meanings and Uses

Your On-Line Guide to

The Healing Energies, Metaphysical Properties,

Legendary Uses, and Meaning

of

Ruby

Introduction to Meaning and Uses of Ruby

The fiery and captivating Ruby is a stone of nobility, considered the most magnificent of all gems, the queen of stones and the stone of kings. Ancients believed it surpassed all other precious stones in virtue, and its value exceeded even that of the Diamond. The Chinese Emperor Kublai Khan was said to have offered an entire city in exchange for a sizable Ruby. [Melody, 573][Fernie, 138, 140][Megemont, 159][Kunz, 102][Simmons, 332]

Revered in many cultures throughout history, Ruby has always been a talisman of passion, protection and prosperity. It symbolizes the sun, and its glowing hue suggests an inextinguishable flame within the stone that legends claim would shine through even the thickest clothing and could not be hidden; if Ruby were cast into water it would cause it to boil, and if carved and pressed into wax, it would melt the wax. It was worn as an amulet or charm to ward off plague and pestilence, warned its wearer of impending danger, kept the body safe, and banished sadness and foolish thoughts. It was reputed to bring its owner peace, drive away frightful dreams, restrain lust, and to help resolve disputes. Burmese legend declares inserting a Ruby into the flesh would make one completely invulnerable. [Mella, 103][Kunz, 101-103][Fernie, 141-142][Simmons, 332]

Today, Ruby’s metaphysical properties are no less astounding. This exquisite crystal emanates the pure Red ray with a vibrancy unsurpassed in the mineral kingdom. It actively stimulates the Base Chakra, increasing vitality and chi, the life-force energy, throughout the physical body and into the spirit. It promotes a clear mind, increased concentration and motivation, and brings a sense of power to the wearer, a self-confidence and determination that overcomes timidity and propels one toward prosperity and achievement. [Simmons, 332-333][Ahsian, 333][Hall, 250-251][Melody, 573]
Ruby initiates the sensual pleasures of life. It stirs the blood and stimulates the heart, encouraging one to enjoy being in the physical world. It increases desire and sexual energy, and may be used to activate the kundalini. Ruby has always been associated with love, especially faithful passionate commitment and closeness. In antiquity Rubies were considered to be perfect wedding stones. [Ahsian, 333-334][Hall, 250-251][Eason, 71][Mella, 103][Gienger, 75]

Natural Ruby is one of four “precious” gemstones (including Diamond, Emerald and Sapphire) known its rarity, monetary value, and hardness (second only to Diamond). Ruby is red Corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral with chromium responsible for its rich, red color. The name comes from the Latin word rubeus, meaning “red,” and until 1800 when Ruby was recognized as a variety of Corundum, red Spinels, Tourmalines, and Garnets were also believed to be Ruby. All other color varieties of Corundum are designated as Sapphire. (See the Sapphire page on this website.) [Megemont, 159][Simmons, 332][gemselect.com]

Ruby forms in prismatic tabular, bipyramidal or rhombohedral crystals, as well as granular or massive habits, and has a vitreous luster. The most valuable and desired Rubies are those of a shade called “pigeon’s blood,” defined by William Fernie as “a pure deep, rich red, without any admixture of blue or yellow,” though others define it as “a pure red with a hint of blue.” The shade of red varies depending on where it is mined, and may be a deep pink-red, a reddish-orange, red with a violet cast, or even a deep wine color. The paler pink Corundum, debated as Ruby by some, is usually referred to in gemological terms as Pink Sapphire rather than Ruby. [Simmons, 332][Fernie, 139-141][Eason, 71][gemselect.com][Mindat.org]

All natural Rubies have imperfections within them, including color impurities and inclusions of Rutile needles known as “silk.” These inclusions help distinguish natural Ruby from synthetics and when structurally oriented so the light shines off the “silk” in certain ways, the inclusions actually increase the rarity and value of the stone. If cut en cabochon, these special stones may display a chatoyancy, or rare “cat’s eye” effect, or in the case of a Star Ruby may display a six-rayed star effect called asterism, that causes the light rays to appear to glide magically across the stone as it is moved. [wikipedia.org][gemstone.org][gemselect.com]

Star Ruby has the same metaphysical properties as Ruby, but with increased healing and magical energies. It is most powerful at full moon. The Light of the Soul is reflected and grounded within the star of the Ruby, and amplifies one’s internal resources and fortitude. It is extremely potent for those inclined to self-harm or self-neglect, and is quite beneficial in overcoming sexual dysfunction or the trauma of sexual or power abuse and suppressed anger. As a stone of spiritual Light, it can be used by Light workers and healers to integrate high-frequency energy into the body, and assists one in recognizing the true abundance of life. [Eason, 71][Ahsian, 334]

Ruby Uses and Purposes - Overview

Wear or carry Ruby to overcome exhaustion and lethargy. It stimulates circulation and amplifies energy and vitality to the whole system. However, those who are highly sensitive or irritable may find this stone over-stimulating or uncomfortable to wear. Ruby has been known to calm hyperactivity in some individuals. [Hall, 250-251][Gienger, 75]

Ruby is an aphrodisiac, allowing one to experience all forms of love, from wild sensuality to mystical communion. It deepens a couple’s relationship and encourages closeness and commitment. It is also the stone of courtly love and may honor admiration from a distance. [Megemont, 160] Worn during lovemaking, Ruby can help restore and maintain passion, and is excellent for increasing the chances for conception. [Eason, 71][Gienger, 75]

Ruby’s intense energy sharpens the mind, bringing a heightened awareness and excellent concentration. It promotes a courageous attitude, and may increase one’s success in controversies and disputes. [Hall, 251][Melody, 573]

Ruby helps reduce fear of the paranormal and evil. It banishes nightmares, and guards against psychic and psychological attack. It is a shielding crystal, protecting the home from fire and intruders, and is good to wear discreetly to stay safe at night. [Eason, 71][Melody, 573][Hall, 251]

Rubies both naturally formed and lab-created, are highly prized crystals for technological use in areas such as watchmaking, medical instruments, and lasers for microscopic surgery. [Mella, 103][Raphaell, 10]

Ruby Healing Therapies - Overview

(Please note: Information on this web site is no substitute for consulting a health care professional. All information contained on this web site,
including information relating to medical and health conditions, products and treatments, is for informational purposes only.
Please see your doctor or health care professional before starting any alternative treatments, diets, supplements or exercise programs.)

Ruby Physical Healing Energy

Ruby is considered a blood stone, strengthening the heart, myocardium, ventricles and coronaries, and stimulating good circulation and blood flow. It is also an aid in treating disorders or disease of the heart. [Megemont, 160][Hall, 251][Eason, 71][Gienger, 75][Melody, 573]

Ruby assists in regulating menstrual flow and alleviating pain associated with menstruation. It is considered beneficial for the reproductive organs, and is often used for treatment of sexual dysfunction, impotence and infertility, early menopause, and as a support for gynecological operations. It is believed to be helpful during pregnancy, especially for older women, and in the optimum formation of children in the embryonic state. [Megemont, 160][Ahsian, 334][Gienger, 75][Eason, 71][Melody, 574] Star Ruby may also be supportive in vasectomy reversal. [Eason, 71]

Ruby is useful in detoxifying the body, blood, and lymph, and is helpful in treating fever and infections. It stimulates the adrenals, kidneys and spleen, and aids inadequate circulation or energy flow in the feet and legs. It may also be used to assist in weight regulation, especially when emotional eating is a cause. [Melody, 573][Hall, 251][Ahsian, 334][Gienger, 75]

Ruby Emotional Healing Energy

Ruby allows the sharing of loving energy despite past hurts, bringing up anger or negative energy for transmutation. It gives the strength to rise from martyrdom and choose whether or not to dwell in anguish, distress, or suffering, and encourages a positive and more courageous state of mind. It brings out the protective aspects of one’s character, inspiring one to step forward and stand up for those who are threatened, be it friends or strangers, children, animals, or the environment. [Eason, 71][Hall, 251][Melody, 573][Simmons, 333]

Ruby also sustains and protects those with sensitive natures and distorted views of themselves or others. It overcomes fears of being “ugly” or unloved, and is particularly empowering for those who hold excess weight in the body in order to ground in the physical world. It releases destructive emotional holds, and is a powerful stone for developing a more loving attitude toward oneself and the physical body. [Mella, 139, 148][Ahsian, 333-334]

Ruby Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

Ruby carries the frequency of the enlightened Base Chakra, stimulating the flow of life-force energy or chi through the body. It strengthens the ability to meet one’s needs and manifest one’s desires, and is powerful in activating the kundalini. [Ahsian, 333]

The Base, or Root Chakra, is located at the base of the spine, and controls the energy for kinesthetic feeling and movement. It is the foundation of physical and spiritual energy for the body. When physically out of balance the symptoms will manifest themselves as lethargy, low levels of activity, low enthusiasm, and a need for constant stimulation. When its spiritual energies are out of balance, one will feel flighty, disconnected from reality, and distant. When the Base Chakra is in balance, the physical body regains its strength and stamina, and the spiritual energy is rekindled in the form of security and sense of one’s own power. It often leads to independence and spontaneous leadership.

Ruby Spiritual Energy

Ruby signifies light to the darkness of one’s life. It encourages “following your bliss,” teaching one to enjoy being in the physical world and perceiving the spiritual energy that exists throughout the realm of matter. It offers lessons in mastering the transformation of thought and intent into physical manifestation in order to change one’s world. [Melody, 573][Ahsian, 334]

Ruby assists in connecting one’s energy field to the Earth for the purpose of replenishing one’s energy stores. It is excellent for grounding and overcoming mental overload, and is a great support during times of stress or when there is a lengthy sojourn before having the opportunity to rest. [Ahsian, 333]

Ruby Color Energy

Ruby brings red, the color of a self-confidence built on fearlessness, a call to action and excitement. It raises our enthusiasm and speeds up our metabolism. Red reflects the color of passion, energy, and life. It motivates. It is a very strong color - the color of fire and blood. Dark Red crystals embody strong, deep feelings, durable energy and quiet passion. It is a masculine color, particularly useful for increasing devotion and seeing the seriousness of life.

Meditation with Ruby

Ruby is a stone that is not often used for meditation. Most have found that it is just too invigorating to be effective in a meditation ritual.

Ruby Divination

The Divinatory meaning of Ruby: Value friends and family even if they seem temporarily dull. [Eason, 71]

The Divinatory meaning of Star Ruby: Now is the time to let everyone know what you can achieve; luck is with you. [Eason, 71]

Ruby brings prophetic dreams and banishes nightmares. Dreaming of Rubies is a sign of coming prosperity and good fortune. [Eason, 71] It may also indicate unexpected guests. [Kunz, 358]

Ruby and the Angelic Realm

If your birthday falls in any of the following periods, a Ruby of the color listed can be a valuable conduit to your Guardian Angel. The table also provides the name of the Guardian Angel of those born in the time period.

Date

Crystal Color

Name of Guardian Angel

March 16-20

Dk. Red

Mumiah (Mumijah)

June 1-5

Pink

Hariel

October 19-23

Red

Mikael

November 8-12

Pink

Ariel

November 13-17

Dk. Red

Asaliah

December 8-12

Dk. Red

Imamiah

There are other Angels that are partial to Ruby. The table below gives you the information about them.

Purpose

Crystal Color

Name of Angel

Protector and Ruler of the dates November 13-17; Scorpio.

Dk. Red

Asaliah

Protector and Ruler of the dates December 8-12; Sagittarius.

Dk. Red

Imamiah

Protector and Ruler of the dates March 16-20; Pisces.

Dk. Red

Mumiah

Angel of Fertility

Dk. Red

Samandiriel

Master of the 11th Tarot Card “Justice”.

Dk. Red

Zuriel

Master of the 16th Tarot Card “The Tower”.

Red

Graphiel

Protector and Ruler of the dates October 19-23; Libra.

Red

Mikael

Ruby Goddess Crystals

Ruby honors Sekhmet, the Egyptian Goddess of War. She is the most powerful goddess of Lower Egypt, and is usually depicted with the head of a lion and the body of a beautiful woman.

Ruby also honors Befana, the Italian Goddess of Twelfth Night.

Birthstones

There are several ways to find an appropriate birthstone. The traditional one is listed first. These are from the popular lists that most people are familiar with. The second way is to find your natural birthstone by the color wheel of life. You can click on the Natural Birthstone graphic below to learn more. Finally many people use the traditional stones of the Zodiac.

In this section you will find information on all three approaches.

Ruby Traditional Birthstone

Ruby is the traditional birthstone of those born in July

Ruby Natural Birthstone

Ruby, with its red color, is one of the natural birthstones of those born in mid-autumn (October 22 - November 20). Red crystals bring you energy, courage, passion, and love.

Ruby - Zodiac Stone of Capricorn

Ruby is the zodiac stone for those born under the sign of Capricorn as winter sets in, from December 22 to January 19. Capricorn is represented by a mountain goat, and those born under this sign are serious and strong-willed, determined to accomplish what they set out to do. They are patient and honest, and enjoy companions who make them laugh.

Ruby Amulets and Talismans

In antiquity, Rubies were used as amulets against poison, plague, evil thoughts, and wicked spirits, keeping the wearer in health and cheering his mind. [Fernie, 141]

Ruby is a Seeker Transformer crystal. Seekers contain a crystal energy structure that aligns the natural energy of the crystal to the natural power of the human mind to find the way to new horizons and new capabilities. They’re pointers, directors, and compasses; the fresh start crystals. These are talismans of the scientist, the adventurer, the hunter, wanderer, and explorer. They’re also crystals of the student and the researcher.

Transformer crystals enhance efforts to change our situations, prospects, health, outlook or relationships. By transforming ourselves we transform our lives. We learn to dance, speak a new language, grow stronger, or become a better spouse or child. Seeker crystals with the earth power of the Transformer are excellent talismans to aid our efforts to grow, develop new capabilities and change our lives.

Ruby Feng Shui

Ruby utilizes Fire Energy, the energy of enthusiasm, warmth, brightness, illumination and activity. It is Yang in nature. It is the energy of heat, action, emotion and passion - of ideas, of concepts, and sex. It is traditionally associated with the south area of a home or room, and with the fame and reputation area of your dwelling. Use its energy to give your life the boost it needs to enhance your standing in the community and within your family. Red gemstones should be used sparingly, to bring the sun's power and the fire element's energy to your space.

Ruby in Ancient Lore and Legend

The blood-red Ruby was considered one of the most magnificent of all gems and was honored throughout history in many cultures. The Hindus called it ratnaraj, “king of precious stones,” and ratnanayaka, “leader of precious stones.” Ancient texts are referenced as claiming “the beautiful clear and fine Ruby is the lord of stones; it is the gem of gems, and surpasses all other precious stones in virtue.” It is also said to be “the most precious of the twelve stones God created when He created all creatures,” and was thought to be the fourth gem in the breastplate of the Hebrew High Priest of the Second Temple engraved with the tribe of Judah. [Kunz, 101-102, 292-293][Fernie, 138]

A powerful symbol of the sun, Ruby is believed to contain the bloodline of humanity. Its glowing radiance suggests an inextinguishable flame within the stone that cannot be hidden, as it would shine through clothing or any material wrapped around the gem. An exaggerated Eastern legend says according to the Talmud, Abraham, when keeping his numerous wives held in an iron city, in order to give them light, set a bowl of Rubies in its midst which filled all the air with luster. [Mella, 103][Kunz, 101][Fernie, 139, 142]

In Hindu lore the fire within the Ruby burned so hot, if cast into water it would communicate its heat to the liquid causing it to boil. The Greeks likewise believed if Ruby were carved and impressed on wax, it would melt the wax. [Kunz, 102][Mella, 103]

Rubies were at one time thought to be male and female, the darker red and Star Rubies were “male,” while those of lighter hue were “female.” [Kunz, 102][Fernie, 139]

From ancient times up through the Middle Ages, Ruby was worn as an amulet or charm to ward off plague and pestilence, and gave its wearer the virtue of prudence, and banished sadness and idle, foolish thoughts. It was reputed to bring the wearer peace, drive away frightful dreams, restrain lust, and to help resolve disputes. Not only was the wearer or carrier of this precious stone protected from all perils, but if the four corners of a house, garden or vineyard were touched by a Ruby they would be preserved from lightning, tempests, and worms. [Fernie, 2, 142][Simmons, 332][Kunz, 102-103][Melody, 573]

Ancient legends in Burma held that inserting a Ruby into the flesh so it became a part of the body conferred the power of invulnerability. Those who bore a Ruby about with them in this way confidently believed they could not be wounded by spear, sword, or gun. [Kunz, 103][Simmons, 332]

Medicinally, powdered Ruby was mixed with water and used to treat infirmities of the eyes. Taken internally it was given in doses of ten to forty grains to “sweeten the sharpness of the humors, to strengthen the vitals, to drive away melancholy, and to restore lost strength.” It was even believed to make the body capable of resisting decay. [Fernie, 2, 142]

Rubies were once thought to protect against venereal diseases. In the Middle Ages it was the protective stone of the prostitutes of Les Halles in Paris. [Megemont, 160]

Ruby, like all noble precious stones, was thought to give warning of poison, refusing to endure its presence. It grew dark and cloudy if any evil was about to befall its wearer and would not resume its pristine color until the peril had passed. [Fernie, 139]

Throughout history Rubies have been considered perfect wedding stones. Their association with love, marriage, balance and royalty has held fast throughout time. Ancient Egyptians honored Ruby for beauty and love, protection and good fortune, and Eastern cultures considered Ruby a spiritual stone representing the beauty of the soul. Rubies are traditionally considered a gem of summer and are given as gifts for a fifteenth or fortieth year wedding anniversary. [Eason, 45][Mella, 103][Kunz, 324, 337]

Star Ruby is given on a fifty-second wedding anniversary, and was traditionally known in Oriental culture as a “phenomenal gem” to be worn on Wednesdays. Phenomenal gems exhibited a moving line, star, or changes on the surface as the light varied, and was considered to bring good fortune to the wearer. [Kunz, 333-335, 337]

Today Ruby is still considered to bring its owner prosperity and peace, for it is said that as long as one retains a bit of Ruby, wealth will never depart. [Melody, 573][Mella, 103]

Footnote References

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